Abstract
The plasma refraction index can be calculated by different methods. In this paper, a physical approach is presented and applied to non-linear situations. We have particularly focused on the case where the mass of the electrons subjected to the wave becomes relativistic. In the case of a circularly polarized high intensity wave, ionization is considered.
Highlights
We are interested in the propagation of laser radiation in the at mosphere in order to study it at very large distances
Where n0 is the usual weak field refractive index, n2 the second order index associated to bound electrons and I the intensity of the optical field
The fact that we are interested in long wavelengths makes the threshold power very high
Summary
We are interested in the propagation of laser radiation in the at mosphere in order to study it at very large distances. We know the es sential role played by the index of refraction in the propagation of the wave It is the result of a balance between the Kerr effect and the dif fraction that can only be achieved when the power of the laser is above a certain threshold. Long wavelengths make the threshold power very high and require, for a CO2 laser to be of the order of one terawatt. At these powers the ionized electrons can become relativistic. This work is part of a wider field of research on wave propagation properties, an area in which the knowledge of the refractive index can be a major issue In this area studied for many years, very innovative works have been published recently [3,4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
